The European Zoological Journal (Dec 2025)
A forest path towards an education for global citizenship
Abstract
Long-term zoological and ethological field research plays a substantial role in developing effective biodiversity conservation actions. At the same time, stable research facilities in areas where subsistence economies prevail foster the development of relationships and ongoing collaboration with public and private institutions. This study focuses on the local impact produced by Maromizaha Research Polyvalent Center -CRPM-, a field station located in eastern Madagascar, where, since 2008, the Department of Life Sciences and Biology Systems at the University of Turin has led ethological research programs on various lemur species, working closely with the Manager of the Protected Area, GERP, and the local population. Over the years, this facility has generated opportunities for professional training, capacity building, and educational projects in the Anevoka primary schools. In 2024, the incredible biodiversity of the Maromizaha forest became the focus of the educational project “Tonga Soa Madagasikara!” (Welcome to Madagascar!) which involved Malagasy children and young people, as well as a middle school class from the Rimini province in Italy. Zoological research activities gradually evolved into international cooperation projects in educational fields, effectively integrating indigenous knowledge and diversifying livelihood options to reduce dependency on biological resources. Collaborations promoted by shared research goals contributed to local educational and economic growth, and contributed in strengthening the local communities. In conclusion, efforts to enhance local environmental sustainability and conservation in Maromizaha contributed to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals, such as SDG 4 (Quality of education) and SDG 15 (Life of land), but also to SDGs 2 (Zero hunger), SDG 3 (Good health and well-being), SDG 5 (Gender equality), SDG 10 (Reduced inequalities), SDG 12 (Responsible consumption and production), SDG 17 (Partnership for the goals) and 13 (Climate actions). The Maromizaha long term cooperation project shows how, thanks to scientific research, education for sustainable development becomes education for global citizenship in disadvantaged areas of the world.
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